England vs. Scotland is the international equivalent of the Old Firm Derby. This contest is much more than just a football match, with the history of the game running back hundreds of years.
England go into the fixture as clear favourites, but with the current managerial position up for grabs, a significant level of uncertainty surrounds the Three Lions camp following the controversial dismissal of Sam Allardyce.
The lack of form from England’s strikers ensures that the contest will remain a lot closer than many people suggest. Vs. Scotland, Gareth Southgate will be up against a passionate and rigid defensive line with the capability of hurting any team on their day.
Previously, Scotland have beaten France and Italy and will be one of the Three Lions’ competitors for top-spot in the group.
Here at FootballFanCast, we believe this trio will need to be contained to ensure Southgate comes away with yet another victory against their bitter rivals.
Robert Snodgrass
Hull City’s Snodgrass has been devastatingly good this campaign, and many of England’s defenders will be aware of his all-round ability.
In particular, England will need to be weary of ‘Snoody’s’ free-kicks with him scoring twice already in the Premier League direct from a set-piece.
His return from a long-term injury is a testament to his character, but Southgate must ensure he receives the majority of his team’s defensive concentration, as he will be difficult to stop.
Oliver Burke
Burke has already been likened to Gareth Bale and recently made the big-money move to join Bundesliga outfit, Red Bull Leipzig.
Having impressed for Nottingham Forest, he swapped England for Germany and is continuing his great form. His impact in Germany has been evident and has helped guide newly promoted Leipzig to joint top of the Bundesliga, along with Bayern Munich.
The 19-year-old is Scotland’s most expensive teenager and his neat feet and trickery on the ball may cause England numerous problem’s this Friday.
James McArthur
If there is one member of this Scotland squad that knows the Premier League inside out, it’s Crystal Palace’s McArthur.
McArthur is now into his sixth season in England and is seemingly becoming a better player as campaign passes. His recent goals tally suggests that he may be one to watch for the England midfield, who struggle with containing runners from deep in crucial games.
If Gordan Strachan can use McArthur to his full potential, then England could be in for a long night.
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